Robinson leads USA in five-set win over Russia

 

OSAKA, Japan, September 27, 2019 – Kelsey Robinson came up big for the U.S. Women’s National Team by delivering eight of her match-high 27 points in the tiebreaking set to rally the Americans past Russia 24-26, 25-22, 25-22, 17-25, 15-8 Friday to begin the FIVB World Cup’s third and final phase taking place in Osaka, Japan.

 

Team USA, ranked No. 3 in the world, improved to 8-1 overall in the 12-team round robin World Cup. The Americans, now in second place by themselves, face Cameroon (0-9, 2 points) on Saturday. The U.S. concludes the World Cup against Korea on Saturday. Russia, ranked No. 5 in the world, is now 7-2 and in third place.

 

 Robinson converted 23 of 44 attacks into points with four aces – three coming in the final set – as part of her 27 points at the outside hitter position. Opposite Annie Drews added 23 points while outside hitter Jordan Larson had 16 points in the victory.

 

 “I think we let some things get away from us in the fourth set,” Robinson said in regards to the comeback following the fourth set and slow start to the fifth set. “I think we did a really good job at coming back together, and making sure we are doing it together. We are staying together no matter if it is shaky or good. I am proud how we handled it as a team.”

 

 “My teammates are amazing,” Robinson said. “(Jordyn) Poulter is putting up great balls and we have great passing, the middles are holding blocks for us. The only reason I can do well is because of my teammates.”